When you smile, are your gums more prominent than your teeth? If so, then you’re probably not as confident about your appearance as you’d like to be. The good news is your cosmetic dentist in Wethersfield has an effective solution – a crown lengthening procedure. To find out how it can help to create the smile you’ve always wanted, continue reading!
What is a Crown Lengthening?
If you’re wondering how your cosmetic dentist can make your tooth longer, don’t fret trying to figure it out. That’s because the actual focus of the procedure is to reduce your gum mass, which creates the visual effect of having a lengthened crown.
The benefits of this surgery aren’t just cosmetic, though. Here are two other reasons a crown lengthening may be suggested:
- To allow for the placement of a new crown
- To remove a small amount of natural bone beneath the gum line to properly treat decay
How to Prepare for the Procedure
Before the surgery begins, you’ll meet with your dentist so your medical history can be reviewed to ensure your safety. Additionally, X-rays will be taken so your current condition can be properly assessed.
This will also be the opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have and for your dentist to give any final instructions before the surgery.
What Happens During the Procedure?
The first step is for the dentist to apply local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable procedure. Then, using either a drill, laser or a combination of the two instruments, the necessary amount of gum tissue and bone will be removed from around the teeth.
Finally, stitches and a special putty-like dressing are placed to allow for proper healing. In roughly 45-60 minutes, you’ll have a revamped smile.
The Healing Process
Typically, it takes around three months to fully recover from the crown lengthening procedure. However, you’ll still be able to resume your normal activities as your gums begin to heal.
To prevent any initial setbacks, you should avoid any strenuous activities for the first two-to-three days after the procedure is performed. Otherwise, you could risk a dental emergency.
How to Deal with Any Discomfort
If there is any pain during the healing process, here are some possible remedies:
- You can take ibuprofen or Tylenol.
- For more acute pain, your dentist may prescribe medications.
- For any swelling, you can apply ice to the outside of your jaw in 20-minute increments.
The Importance of Renewed Confidence
When you have your smile improved with the crown lengthening procedure, you can expect heightened confidence, but the benefits don’t stop there. There are positive internal changes that occur when you feel better about yourself, such as the increased secretion of health-enhancing hormones like oxytocin, endorphins, serotonin and dopamine.
This results in the suppression of stress-induced hormones like cortisol, adrenaline and others that could cause dangerous inflammation and poor overall health.
So when you receive crown lengthening in Wethersfield, you’ll enjoy the all-around benefits, but it all starts with contacting your cosmetic dentist to schedule a visit today!
About the Author
Dr. Thomas G. Dolan earned his dental degree from the New York University College of Dentistry, and 30 years later, he is still providing the highest quality of care to his patients. Additionally, he has earned a fellowship and mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Dolan creates beautiful smiles at Dolan Dental, and he can be reached for more information through his website.